7 Ways to Stand Out at Your Internship

Whether this is your first internship, or your final experience before entering a full-time career, make sure you’re following these 7 tips to excel in the office.

1. Arrive slightly early

The staff at your internship site will notice if you consistently arrive 10-15 minutes before you are scheduled to start. Arriving early will allow you to situate yourself and be prepared to begin at your start time. Also, if there is a commuting delay you will have enough lag time to get to your internship on time.

2. Ask for feedback

Asking your supervisor for feedback can be extremely valuable. You want to make sure that you are being a productive member of the team. This internship experience is a learning opportunity, and you want to see what you can do to improve.

3. Take all assignment seriously

Treat each assignment with care and diligence. Your supervisor is watching how you handle each task, and in order to gain more responsibility, you have to demonstrate your ability to complete each small assignment well.

4. Take notes and stay engaged

Bringing a notebook wherever you go will allow you to stay engaged and focused. Taking notes will allow you to jot down any information you will need in the future.

5. Anticipate the needs of your supervisor

Go above and beyond by watching your supervisor’s work style so you can better aid them throughout the duration of your internship.

6. Be kind to everyone you interact with throughout your day

Radiating kindness to others will make a huge impact on how you are viewed in the office. Helping fellow interns or staff on assignments will make a positive difference, and will demonstrate your ability to be a team player.

7. Write thank you notes to show your gratitude

Showing your gratitude to others will go a long way. Writing thank you notes anytime a professional takes time out of their day to meet you for coffee or lunch will help you stand out. I would also suggest writing thank you notes to each staff member in the office before you leave your internship. The staff will remember you long after your departure if you take the time to show your gratitude.